COUNCIL chiefs are set to make a decision on plans to transform part of the former Accrington Nori brickworks site.

Land at the famous site on Whinney Hill, which has been derelict for nearly 20 years, could be turned into a builders merchants if the plans are approved by Hyndburn Council’s Planning Committee.

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Bosses said it would bring investment and jobs to the area.

The resubmitted application has been made by Greengates Builders Merchants, who already have a premises in Whalley Road, Accrington.

As part of a deal with Lancashire County Council parking will be provided to residents who would have lost out because of the new bus lane planned in the town.

The 1.95 hectare site will include a new warehouse, outside storage space, parking and a turning area.

Steven Pickup, owner of Greengates which has been in Accrington for 28 years, said: “It means there will be more jobs for the local area “I do not how many, but it is a positive move for the company as an expansion of the business.

“It has been empty for 19 years and is a bit of an eyesore. Neighbours seem to be in favour of it being developed.”

The site is separate to the works owned by Forterra who announced they were mothballing their brickmaking factory in the summer.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “The site is just scrubland now, but going back many years it was a brick yard. I completely support it. It is a positive move for the builder’s merchants and will support employment.

“The land has been derelict and problematic for many years with travellers using it and leaving behind rubbish.

“It is a site that needs utilising and I’m pleased they are resubmitting the application.”

He said part of the land will be used for the Pennine Reach scheme to provide parking for residents at the back of Whalley Road following an agreement with the county council.

The application drew one objection with concerns raised about additional traffic and house prices. One resident said there had been a ‘lack of account taken for vulnerable road users especially children leaving the 20 mile an hour residential site’.

The planning committee is to make its decision on November 16.